The 2021 NBA Playoffs continue Tuesday, June 15, with Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals between Milwaukee and Brooklyn, so here’s the best Bucks vs. Nets betting pick along with the latest team news and odds update.
The series is tied at 2-2, as both teams emerged victorious on the home court. The Nets took a nice lead, but the Bucks took full advantage of Brooklyn’s injury problems and won the previous two duels at Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee.
The Bucks opened as 3-point road favorites for Game 5. The Nets are +135 moneyline dogs with a total of 218.5 points on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Game 5 Bucks vs. Nets Super Boost Promos
Milwaukee dominated the shorthanded Nets
The Milwaukee Bucks barely escaped with a victory in Game 3, 86-83, nearly blowing a 21-point lead. They had an easy job in Game 4 because of Kyrie Irving’s injury and defeated the Nets as 2-point home underdogs, 107-96.
Giannis Antetokounmpo led the way for the Bucks this past Sunday, accounting for 34 points and 12 rebounds, while both Khris Middleton and Jrue Holiday enjoyed a great game. Middleton finished with 19 points and eight assists, while Holiday added 14 points and nine dimes.
The Bucks played solid defense in Game 4. P.J. Tucker was all over Kevin Durant, while the Bucks forced 17 turnovers and scored 20 fast break points. Milwaukee controlled the glass and surrendered only three offensive rebounds which was another crucial factor in a low-scoring affair.
Through their first eight outings this postseason, the Bucks have allowed 101.4 points per game on a 42.1% shooting from the field and 35.3% from downtown.
Brooklyn desperately needs its superstars back
While the Bucks only miss Donte DiVincenzo (foot), the Brooklyn Nets have to deal with Kyrie Irving and James Harden’s absence. Irving left Game 4 due to an ankle injury, and the seven-time All-Star is doubtful to play Tuesday. Harden missed the previous three contests with a hamstring injury and is listed as questionable for Game 4.
The Nets are not the same team without Harden and Irving, allowing their rivals to focus on Kevin Durant who struggled last Sunday, making just nine of his 25 field goals. Mike James finished Game 4 with five points and an assist, while Bruce Brown had seven points and a couple of dishes in 21 minutes on the floor.
Brooklyn might risk Harden for the rest of the series, as Irving’s ankle injury looked pretty bad. The Nets’ backcourt is quite shorthanded at the moment, so I wouldn’t be surprised if The Beard takes the floor Tuesday at Barclays Center.
Trends:
Milwaukee:
- 7-3 ATS in the last ten playoff games on the road as favorites
Brooklyn:
- 3-7 ATS in the last ten playoff games as underdogs
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Brooklyn Nets Pick:
The Bucks look ready to put on a fight, and if they continue to play aggressive, physical defense, the Nets will keep it close only if they make it rain from downtown. Milwaukee will certainly continue to press and double-team Kevin Durant which will leave open shots for KD’s teammates.
I’m going with the Bucks to cover even if James Harden suits up, while Kyrie shouldn’t be able to play after that injury in the previous clash. This is an opportunity for Giannis Antetokounmpo to prove his worth and get one step away from his second conference finals. The Bucks possess enough depth to compete with the injury-depleted Nets and are favorites for a reason.
Milwaukee Bucks vs. Brooklyn Nets Total Pick:
The under has hit in each of the previous four games of this semifinal series. The Nets’ offense has struggled, playing without James Harden who averages 8.8 assists per game this postseason. As I’ve mentioned, the Bucks will continue with their aggressive defense, so following the betting trends seems like a logical choice.
However, I’m going with the over, expecting the Nets to lean heavily on their 3-point shooting, as KD needs help. Also, the Bucks won’t hesitate to push the ball in transition. They were tied for the second-fastest pace in the league this past regular season, averaging 102.2 possessions per 48 minutes.